Great Black-backed Gull

FICEDULA > Great Black-backed Gull

Description

The Herring Gull is recognizable by its white and gray plumage, sturdy yellow beak with a red spot, and yellow eyes with a red ring around them. It has a very opportunistic diet, which includes fish, human waste, and small mammals. It prefers coastal habitats but also adapts to inland areas, such as lakes and rivers. It nests in colonies on cliffs or islands, laying 2–3 eggs between April and June.

The Situation in Italian-Speaking Switzerland

In the Canton of Ticino, the Herring Gull is present year-round and nests primarily on Lake Verbano. The species is showing significant population growth.

  • Larus michahellis
  • Goéland leucophée
  • Mittelmeermöwe
  • Gavial dal nord
  • Yellow-legged Gull
  • 60 cm
  • 140–155 cm

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